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 Heavily defended tollgate |
At the Old Town Medieval Walls Southampton, Hampshire S014 2YD United Kingdom +44 2380 83 3333 |
This is the most distinctive and famous landmark in Southampton. Visible from the south end of the shopping centre, it was once a heavily defended tollgate, locked at dusk as sentries patrolled the walls. On the south side, interesting features include a 1605 watch bell, one of five originally in the town, a 1705 sundial that is six minutes out from GMT, a statue of George III imitating the classical style of the Emperor Hadrian and the old town lock ups, with graffiti dating from the 14th century. On the north side you can find 18th century shields, 13th century half-round drum towers, arrow slits and 18th century lions, part of an old Southampton legend. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: ricksphotos101 |
 Photo: southampton-pubs.co. |
 Photo: Mike Whitfield |
 Photo: Alex Clark  |
 Photo: Jon |
 Photo: javic |
 Photo: Bjo San |
 Photo: amtor |
 Photo: Linda Sarris |
 Photo: Steve Morley |
 Photo: Aoife McCarthy |
 Photo: fredwimmer |
 Photo: string63 |
 Photo: Rich 1975 |
 Photo: Coradia1000 |
 Photo: Katie |
 Photo: Kat Miller |
 Photo: Mischa Tuffield |
 Photo: Sue Waugh |
 Five city centre parks |
City Centre Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom |
The Central Parks are the five parks located behind the Above Bar Street shopping area in Southampton. These are East, West (or Watts), Houndwell, Palmerston and Hoglands. They are home to notable monuments like the Titanic Engineer Officers Memorial and the Cenotaph, which was designed by Lutyens and later used by him as the basis for the design of the Cenotaph in Whitehall. Facilities include tennis, bowls and putting. Rare and old trees can also be viewed on special Tree Walks. Leaflets and further information may be obtained from the Leisure and Visitor Centre (The). The parks are included in English Heritage's Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest and were developed during the 19th century from common land previously farmed by medieval citizens. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Portsmouth attraction |
393 Commercial Road Southampton, Hampshire PO1 4QL United Kingdom +44 2392 82 7261 |
Charles Dickens was born in Portsmouth on February 7th 1812, the second of seven children and his birthplace is now an interesting museum. It is open between April and October and also opens every year on Charles' birthday. Charles lived with his family in two other houses in Portsmouth, but both were destroyed in World War II. After moving from the area, he did not see Portsmouth again until he was nearly 30, whilst researching for Nicholas Nickleby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art gallery, library, law courts, guildhall and cafe |
Civic Centre Road Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7LP United Kingdom +44 2380 83 2277 |
This large complex was the first building of its type to be called a Civic Centre. Designed by Mr E Berry Webber, with foundation stone laid in 1930, it was built on the site of the West Marlands leper colony. The Law Courts moved here in 1933 and it is also home to the Guildhall, the Library and the Reference Library, which contains stacks of local information. The City Art Gallery, one of the best in Europe, opened in 1939 and the excellent Fountains Café can also be found on the premises. Plaques inside mark US involvement in World War II - this was the headquarters of the 14th Major Port. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Charanpal Dhanjal |
 Photo: Malcolm MacNaughton |
 Photo: Gareth & Rebekah |
 Photo: Cddyqa Rogel |
 Photo: Mitch |
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Harbour tours of the docks |
17 Albany Court Bishops Waltham Southampton, Hampshire SO32 1AZ United Kingdom +44 7702 50 6895 |
If you have an interest in viewing huge ocean liners, a Favourite Boat Cruise is highly recommended. Travelling on a 65-seater boat you are given a tour of Southampton's harbour, taking in all the ocean liners moored in the docks at the time, which can include the QE2 and liners from America. The tour takes one hour and you receive a full guided commentary. Longer tours and tailored trips for groups can also be arranged. Please call the number provided for more information. Admission: £6 adults, £3 children. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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An ideal day trip |
Town Quay Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom http://www.hytheferry.co.uk |
This ferry service runs between Southampton and Hythe, a picturesque waterside village that is packed with interesting shops and attractions. The crossing alone makes a day trip to the village worthwhile, as you can see ocean liners like the QE2 and the Oriana on the way and get to ride the world's oldest pier train. The journey was said to have been one of Jane Austen's favourite trips when she lived in Southampton. A ferry has been in operation between Hythe and Southampton since medieval times, when monks from Beaulieu brought fleeces across to store in the Woolhouse, which is now the Maritime Museum. The ferry leaves every half hour, every day except Christmas Day, from Town Quay. If you feel like drink or a snack before you leave, a Monsieur Hulot cafe is conveniently situated opposite the terminal. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Angie Muldowney |
 Photo: Chris Walker |
 Photo: Angie Muldowney |
 Photo: Huw Millington |
 Photo: airfreakone |
 Photo: Derrin Wilkins |
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Restored park |
Above Bar St In the heart of the city centre Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom |
Once an ancient field, today home to West (Watts) Park, East (Andrews) Park, Palmerston Park, Houndwell Park and Hoglands Park. These lovely old parks are full of great places to sit, think, watch and rest. You can enjoy colourful flowers from spring to autumn, and free guided tours are offered throughout the year, including walks like Central Parks, Summer Trees, Summer Bedding and Autumn Walk. The park is currently being refurbished, thanks to a £4.5m scheme funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Southampton City Council. The money is going towards features like a Victorian bandstand. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Your first port of call |
9 Civic Centre Road Southampton, Hampshire SO14 7FJ United Kingdom +44 2380 83 3333 |
If you are visiting Southampton, this tourist office should be your first port of call. The staff will book your accommodation for you and generally help out with any queries you may have. You can pick up leaflets that are free of charge and contain up-to-date information on all the attractions in the area. You can also buy souvenirs and mementos of the city. Maps and books about the region are available from the bookshop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marcus Hunt |
 A must-visit for Titanic fans |
The Wool House Town Quay Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AR United Kingdom +44 2380 22 3941 |
This museum is a must-visit for Titanic buffs. It contains a fascinating Titanic exhibition that includes a video of survivors and locals talking about the tragedy, plus such curiosities as the ornate panel Honour and Glory Crowning Time from Titanic's sister ship Olympic, Captain Smith's sword and a crew member's pocket watch stopped by icy Atlantic waters. Elsewhere in the museum, you will find a fleet of model ships from Southampton's past, a wide choice of White Star souvenirs and evidence of the museum's earlier history - as a jail for starving Napoleonic prisoners. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Roo Reynolds |
 Photo: Stephen Humby |
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Commemorates the pilgrims' departure |
Western Esplanade Outside Western Gate Southampton, Hampshire United Kingdom |
This memorial opposite Mayflower Park commemorates the departure of the Pilgrim Fathers in the Mayflower and the Speedwell from Southampton in August 1620. It was unveiled in 1913 and features a copper replica of the Mayflower plus plaques commemorating both the pilgrims and the 2 million US troops who left Southampton during World War II more than 300 years later. If you can officially trace your ancestry back to the pilgrims, you can have a plaque added to the memorial. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrew Plumb |
 Photo: p.livett@btinternet.com |
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Home of the International Boat Show |
Off of West Quay Rd Opposite Southampton IOW ferry terminal Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ United Kingdom |
Home of the International Boat Show, the biggest boat show in Europe to take place on water, Mayflower Park has a wonderful location on the banks of the River Test. It is an ideal spot from which to watch the river and the ships coming in and going out, with great views of the wonderful New Forest as well. You may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the QE2 or the Arcadia. It is a great place for a picnic, with much to see and do. Facilities include a cafe, skate park, play area and paddling pool, as well as roller hockey and soccer pitches and a basketball court. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marco Venturini Autieri |
 Photo: Nick James |
 Photo: Dave Farmer |
 Photo: Bob Francis |
 Photo: JAMES |
 Photo: JAMES |
 Photo: Heather Eeles |
 Photo: Jen Lambert |
 Photo: John Zebedee |
 Photo: thegillsoniow |
 Photo: Gillian Moy |
 Photo: Gsplan |
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Beautifully restored, dating from 1290 |
58 French Street Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AT United Kingdom +44 2380 22 1503 |
This fascinating ancient house was originally built in 1290 and has been beautifully restored to its original condition. It has two first-floor bed chambers connected by a gallery and fine exposed roof timbers, reflecting the social standing of its first owner. Specially designed hangings cover the walls and replica medieval pottery adorns the rooms. The merchant in question was the very prosperous John Fortin, who imported cellar-fulls of wine from Bordeaux. The house is said to be the most haunted building in Southampton. Ask the staff about the curly wurly footprints in the cellars and the ghost of Ruth Dill. Admission: Adults £2, Children £1.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Restaurants, boats and the SS Shieldhall |
At the end of M271 Past the Red Funnel Ferry Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3JS United Kingdom +44 2380 22 8353 |
This waterfront development is one of the UK's biggest marinas and you never know who you might bump into in one of its seafront restaurants or cafes, especially during mega-events like the International Boat Show in September. The real attraction is sitting on the waterfront, looking at a forest of masts with a glass in your hand and recognising famous yachts and faces. There are also two cinemas, the Virgin multi-screen and Harbour Lights Picture House, as well as the SS Shieldhall, a fully operational steamship that berths at Ocean Village when it is not at sea. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: M Grant |
 Photo: Noel Lewis |
 Photo: Margaret |
 Photo: Daniel Hardwick |
 Photo: Keith Duckworth |
 Photo: Andy Gibb |
 Photo: littletriggers |
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Trips to the Isle of Wight |
Town Quay Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ United Kingdom +44 2380 33 4010 http://www.redfunnel.co.uk. |
You have two choices to get to the Isle of Wight. You can take a boat from Town Quay that takes 55 minutes, or you can travel by this high-speed ferry service, which takes just 22 minutes! Ferries run throughout the day and all night. Once you're on the island, there's an ocean of places to visit, like Osborne House, Carisbrooke Castle, Blackgang Chine and much more, plus lovely beaches and 60 miles of coast. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard and Gill Long |
 Photo: Damien Everett |
 Photo: iowsaintsfan |
 Photo: Richard Beer |
 Photo: Nick Kitson |
 Photo: Andy |
 Photo: Karen Dance |
 Photo: Matt |
 Photo: Jim Champion |
 Photo: trishapete |
 Photo: Ken Irvine |
 Photo: Peter Collins |
 Photo: the_deelo |
 Photo: Ken Walker |
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Must-see for aviation buffs |
Albert Rd S (opposite Ocean Village) Southampton, Hampshire SO14 3FR United Kingdom +44 2380 63 5830 http://www.spitfireonline.co.uk |
This museum is a must-see for aviation buffs and a great tribute to one of Southampton's heroes, R J Mitchell - the designer of the legendary Spitfire, which was built in Southampton. Exhibits at the museum include a real Sandringham flying boat, a Spitfire and 13 other aircraft, plus masses of photos, models and engines. After taking in the exhibitions, why not stroll across to Ocean Village for a look at the yachts. Check their website for admission prices and seasonal opening hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Will Prescott |
 Photo: Geoff Collins |
 Photo: Rob Pym |
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Catholic church |
84 Bugle Street Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AH United Kingdom |
St Joseph's is the oldest church in Southampton, dating from the 1800s. It is a good place to discover the maritime history of the city as the parish it used to serve consisted mainly of sailors, dock workers and other seafaring trades. The church buildings once housed the Stella Maris club, a spiritual, social and welfare organisation for mariners and their families. It was a well known drinking club and drop-in point for sailors from all over the world. The church itself has some interesting features, such as the altar and the Gothic vaulted ceiling. It also houses the Titanic Restaurant Memorial (The). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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City centre leisure centre |
St Mary's Road Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0BL United Kingdom +44 2380 22 7579 |
Conveniently located in Southampton city center, this very well-equipped and popular leisure center offers facilities for health, fitness and relaxation. Along with all the usual fitness activities such as aerobics, circuit training classes and weight training, it has a solarium and spa, plus squash courts, badminton and table tennis. There is a full program of classes and activities for all the family, with different groups like the over 50s, mothers and children specifically catered for. Discounted concessions are available for off-peak use and for the aged, as well as further discounts for members of the Southampton City Council Leisure Card scheme. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dan Kerins |
 Photo: Richard Coshott |
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Oldest building in town |
St Michael's Square Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AD United Kingdom |
This church is the oldest building in Southampton. It was named after the patron Saint of Normandy and its central tower dates from 1070. Isaac Watts' parents and sister are buried here and the Old Tournai Font (1170), chained Bibles, a Book of Martyrs, a rescued 14th century Holy Rood lectern and Philip of Spain's treasure chest can all be viewed inside. The church is also renowned for having survived the blitz during World War II because its spire was used by the Germans as a landmark and their pilots were ordered not to hit it. Open daily to visitors throughout the summer, courtesy of the Friends of St Michael's. Informative leaflets in most languages are available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Coleman |
 Photo: David Fisher |
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Casino with a famous past |
Terminus House Terminus Terrace Southampton, Hampshire SO1 1FE United Kingdom +44 2380 22 1021 |
Play the tables at a venue with a famous and historic past. Although now a casino, this used to be the grand entrance to Terminus Station, designed by Sir William Tite. This is where half the surviving Titanic crew came home on the nights of 29th-30th April 1912. To play in the casino you have to be a member. It is free to join but applications take 24 hours to be processed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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In memory of locals lost in the disaster |
East Park Southampton, Hampshire SO14 0YN United Kingdom |
This memorial honors the memory of local officers who served as engineers on the Titanic and were lost in the disaster. Erected by their fellow engineers and friends, it pays tribute to their "high conception of their duty and their heroism" for remaining at their posts as the ship went down. The memorial depicts an angel standing at the bow of a ship and lists the names of those lost. It sits at the cusp of East Park and can be viewed from Above Bar Street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: idleformat |
 Photo: Paul Cummings |
 Photo: Marc-Oliver Teschke |
 Photo: Paul Cummings |
 Photo: Elmé Breedt |
 Photo: Arnar Steingrimsson |
 Photo: Sarawuth's Site |
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Memorial to the catering staff of the Titanic |
St Joseph's Church 84 Bugle Street Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AH United Kingdom |
This memorial honors the memory of the large number of crew members from Southampton who were on the Titanic. Most of them were Catholic and came from the parish of St Joseph's. The memorial is in the form of a table with an inscribed plaque and was donated by the Stella Maris Club, which at that time looked after the spiritual and pastoral well-being of its nautical parishioners. On 15th April 1972, the Steward's Memorial Fountain was relocated in the Holyrood church after years of neglect. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rhys Jones |
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Restaurants, bars and a marina |
Town Quay Beside the Hythe Ferry docks Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AQ United Kingdom |
Jutting out onto the water's edge, the Town Quay is one of the most scenic locations in Southampton. As well as an attractive marina, there are restaurants and bars in which you can enjoy a drink or a meal, whilst taking in the fabulous view across the water and watching ships and boats sailing in and out of Southampton. These include Around The World, La Margherita, The Old Orleans and a Monsieur Hulot cafe, while directly opposite the Town Quay you will find Ennio's Al Porto. This is also the place to catch the Hythe Ferry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Tom Goskar |
 Photo: Dominic Winsor |
 Photo: Tony Combes |
 Photo: bobsmithgl100 |
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Cannons, a minstrel's gallery and Anne Boleyn's ghost |
St Michael's Square Bugle Street Southampton, Hampshire SO14 2AD United Kingdom +44 2380 33 2513 |
This quaint Tudor-style museum contains a minstrel's gallery, creaky floorboards, old kitchens and one of Henry VIII's cannons. It also allegedly contains the ghost of Anne Boleyn, who stayed here with Henry when the house was owned by Sir Richard Lyster, Lord Chief Justice of England. There is a replica Tudor-style garden at the back featuring a mulberry tree planted by Huguenots in 1570 that drips with fruit in the summer. On sunny days the garden is full of scented herbs and flowers, making it perfect for some quiet contemplation. Admission is free. The ground floor and garden have wheelchair access. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stephen Humby |
 Photo: Sarah Shreeves |
 Photo: Katheryn D. |
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Replica cargo ship |
Western Esplanade Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1AG United Kingdom +44 2380 83 3333 |
This fascinating replica cargo boat sits by Southampton's waterfront and is a very popular tourist attraction. Although it is called the Viking ship and looks like a Viking ship, it is actually a keel. It was the main type of boat used to carry cargo in and out of Southampton between 1200 and 1400. During the 13th century alone, these keels were used to import thousands of casks of wine, by the local descendants of those who came to England with William the Conqueror. Unfortunately, because the boats were notoriously slow, they were also easy prey for pirates! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Historical landmark |
Western Esplanade Southampton, Hampshire SO15 1AG United Kingdom +44 2380 83 3333 |
This is probably the most historical landmark in Southampton, as out through this gate went Henry V and his entire army to Agincourt, the Pilgrim Fathers to the New World and thousands of servicemen to World War II. Located on the western walls, it was built after the French Raid of 1338, when pirates stormed into the town and pilfered the town's rich stock of silver. King Edward III was furious and ordered the town to defend itself by constructing the Westgate. If you stand underneath and look up you will see the holes through which enemies could be shot or stoned. A double portcullis could also be dropped down to trap them like rats in a cage (look for the resulting grooves). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: farmerytwang |
 Photo: Jim Lee |